The Ballarat LGBTIQ+ community has welcomed the Victorian government's plan to build at least two new safe spaces to support queer young people in western Victoria.
The announcement by Minister for Equality Martin Foley came after the government received a proposal from community groups in south-west Victoria, including Ballarat, highlighting the need for a safe space project for queer youth.
LGBTIQ+ community leader Holly Alice is one of those celebrating the step forward for her local community.
"I think it's very important. Ballarat has such a vast and big LGBT-plus community," she said.
"To see progress ... just means the world to me."
Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said by creating supportive spaces, the mental health of young people across the community would improve, bringing better outcomes for them.
Simple message of support
Mr Foley also announced the latest iteration of the LGBTIQ+ organisational development grants.
The grants, first announced in March, are designed to build on established and emerging queer organisations, and support visibility and voice in the community.
The Victorian government is providing $700,000 to 22 LGBTIQ+ organisations and groups across the state.
Lance DeBoyle of LaNCE TV is one of the recipients of up to $50,000 from the grants program.
Almost a third of recipients are based in regional or rural areas.
Victorian LGBTIQ+ commissioner Todd Fernando said it was clear the Victorian government had backed young people and queer young people in regional and rural areas.
"These grants will allow organisations to flourish and allow them to build their capacity to support the needs of communities on the ground," he said.
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